What Is an ELD in Trucking and How Does It Work?

The introduction of electronic logging devices (or ELDs) has definitely changed the freight industry. This technology is designed to improve road safety by helping drivers comply with hours-of-service regulations. 

For fleet owners, knowing what an ELD in trucking is, how it works and who needs it is essential to keeping operations compliant and avoiding unnecessary complications. This is what we are going to explore in this guide.

What Is an ELD in Trucking?

So, what does ELD stand for? An Electronic Logging Device is a tool that automatically records certain data on the truck. Electronic logging device records replaced logging hours of service (HOS) as well as other information on paper, resulting in better fleet management and optimized workflows. An ELD mandate was introduced by FMCSA in December of 2017, effectively replacing older logging systems.

An electronic logging device is connected directly to a truck’s engine to track mileage, driving time, and engine status. Most ELDs also have a GPS tracker to record the truck’s location in real time. This feature is especially useful for fleets required to file for IFTA. 

Other functions of ELDs include tracking Records of Duty Status and sharing them. Carriers need them for Hours of Service compliance.

How Does an ELD Work

An ELD is connected directly to the engine. It records data and sends it via specialized fleet software, sometimes also to a mobile app. This device keeps a record of driving status, mileage, the truck’s location, and engine hours. 

Dispatchers obtaining this data can monitor the truck’s status in real time and check whether the truck operates within regulations. Recorded information can be used to keep track of Hours of Service statuses, file IFTA returns and ensure safety en route.

To transmit the data, an ELD uses a combination of Bluetooth connection, Wi-Fi and cellular service. This kind of coverage allows to send data simultaneously to fleet dispatch, driver’s interface inside the truck and to safety authorities or FMCSA.

Who Needs an ELD and Which Exemptions Apply?

An ELD mandate states that most commercial drivers required to keep RODS must have an ELD installed. These ELD requirements for commercial vehicles are stated by FMCSA:

• trucks with their own or combined GVWR exceeding 10,001 lbs;
• commercial buses used to transport 9‒15 passengers;
• non-commercial buses used to transport 16 or more passengers;
• trucks that transport hazardous materials.

Some short-haul drivers are exempted from recording their duty status and using electronic logging devices. To qualify, they must meet every requirement listed below.

• operate in a 150-mile radius of their main work location;
• start and end their shifts in the same place;
• not exceed 14 hours on a shift.

These statements provide an ELD exemption only if true together. For example, if your driver exits the radius just once, it’s no longer a short-haul day, and you have to keep Records of Duty Status. The same goes for shifts that exceed the 14-hour limit.

Drivers of commercial trucks that were issued before the year 2000 also qualify for an ELD exemption. This doesn’t mean they don’t have to comply with HOS regulations, though. For older trucks, drivers have to use paper logs to track their time.

We also want to point your attention to specifics of this exemption. By “before the year 2000” FMCSA implies model and not an engine year. If the truck was remodeled with a modern engine, it might not be eligible for an ELD exemption.

Another exemption from an ELD mandate is driveaway-towaway operations. If you deliver a new truck from the dealer or tow it for delivery, you don’t have to install an ELD.

Finally, there is an exemption for occasional operators. If you are required to keep records for 8 or fewer days in a month, you can simply use paper logs. This also applies to drivers who usually operate within a 150-mile radius we’ve mentioned above but still make one long-haul trip per month.

Benefits of ELD Implementation

Installing an ELD comes with significant benefits. 

ELDs make it easier for drivers to record their schedules and give fleet managers reliable records of how time is spent. They enforce HOS rules, which can reduce driver fatigue and related crashes. Paper logbooks disappear from the process, leaving managers with less paperwork and more time. Dispatchers also receive accurate, real-time data, allowing them to respond faster and manage routes more effectively.

Overall, ELDs have a number of useful features that improve operations for both drivers and fleet managers. Apart from automatic recording and real-time data transfer, ELDs also allow driver record certification, safety report display, and audio control features.

ELD vs AOBRD

Experienced truckers remember that between paper logbooks and ELDs there were AOBRD systems. With the introduction of the ELD mandate, AOBRD systems became obsolete and had to be replaced before December 16, 2019. This is a positive shift as ELDs comply with stricter recording standards and are protected from tampering with records.

The main difference between the ELD and AOBRD technologies is data transmission in real time. AOBRD systems didn’t have this feature, with location updates coming in every 60 minutes or longer. The HOS data was either stored locally, or synchronized periodically and manual control over driver status was allowed, resulting in not always accurate data.

ELD Compliance Requirements

ELDs do more than record automatically and transmit data in real time. Drivers can certify their records, view safety reports, and control audio features through the device. Installing an FMCSA-approved ELD is required for compliance.

Other compliance requirements include:

• having a user manual for an ELD onboard;
• properly functioning data transfer, both wireless and not;
• knowing how to report and address ELD malfunctions and how to maintain recordkeeping during these malfunctions.

ELDs make fleet operation safer and more streamlined, but it’s always on fleet management and drivers to make sure they comply with FMCSA regulations. FMCSA lists certified ELDs on its website, but relying solely on certification doesn’t guarantee compliance. Proper maintenance of these systems, accurate logkeeping and comprehensive driver training also matter.

Conclusion

Electronic logging devices can be loved or hated, but never underestimated. They offer obvious benefits for drivers and fleet management, but these advantages come with responsibilities. ELDs improve fleet safety and operations, optimize administrative workload and facilitate dispatchers’ work. 

FleetCare offers logbook support to guarantee compliance with FMCSA standards and ensure the safety of daily operations. Contact us now to learn more about our logbook services!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can drivers correct automatically recorded driving time?

While completely changing driving status is impossible, a driver can make small changes by reassigning driver time and making annotations. All the while, the system will keep the original records.

What should a driver do if the ELD malfunctions?

An ELD malfunction requires you to promptly notify the carrier about the issue. If the problem prevents proper Hours of Service recording, a driver has to use paper logs. In the meantime, the carrier has to repair or replace the ELD within 8 days of when the malfunction was first spotted.

What costs can apply beyond the ELD hardware?

Most manufacturers have subscription fees for the software. From our experience, additional costs also include cellular service and driver training.